Helpful Medical Services You Should Be Aware Of

You probably already have your family doctor in your phonebook, and you should already know the number to call an ambulance. But this isn’t all you should make use of- there are various medical services out there for all kinds of health issues. Many of these are free, and all of them are useful, so keep note of them.

Medical Transport Services

While it’s best to call an ambulance in case of emergencies, there are transportation services that lend a helping hand to those needing medical assistance.

Organisations such as www.Ride-Right.netoffer a range of transportation and shuttle services. Medicaid members can make use of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. This can be useful for those who need to see a doctor but aren’t in a huge hurry. It can even be used to help you reach medical appointments.

Those with disabilities should also make use of paratransit services. Paratransit vehicles have wheelchair lifts or ramps, and those with a physical disability will be helped in. They are used as an alternative to public transport such as buses and trains. You should look into paratransit services if you take care of a disabled family member, as it can help a great deal with day to day travel. Communities of elderly or disabled people also often make use of these services.

Sexual Health Clinics

Sexual health clinics can give you free advice and resources for dealing with sexual health problems. They usually provide people with condoms, STD tests and other birth control methods. Depending on where you are in the world, this is often given for free.

In America, Planned Parenthoodhelps with birth control and offer morning after pills. You may have to pay for some services, although a lot of it is covered by Medicaid and other medical insurance services. In most countries, sexual health clinics are government run and services are free.

If you are sexually active, it is important to make sure you use birth control. You should also get tested for STDs regularly, even if you think that you are clean. Many STDs can be symptom-less and some can even occur when using protection, so be sure to get tested.

The internet can help with your medical needs in many ways. Many doctors and clinics now take appointment bookings online, so it is easier than ever to make a visit to a medical expert. There are also medical services you can use from the comfort of your own home.

Websites such as www.WebMD.com let you search symptoms if you’re feeling ill to find out possible ailments you might have. By identifying the problem, you can find out possible causes and cures. There are also various health sites online which can help you with information and resources.

It is important to note that these services are not an appropriate substitute for a medical health professional. It can help you begin to identify your problems, but if you have any serious medical issues, you should always see a doctor.

Reading health blogs regularly can help educate you on health concerns and let you know how to keep fit and healthy. Finding out how to prevent health problems in the first place is the first step to a healthier life.

Medical Apps

In addition to medical websites, there are many apps available for your smartphone, tablet or other portable device. WebMD has an app, and there are also other symptom checkers available in app form.

Much like websites, these shouldn’t be used to try and treat serious medical issues. However, it can be a good way to identify symptoms from wherever you are. By finding out possible causes of health problems, you can find the medical help you need quicker.

There are many free health apps in the Google Play Storeand the iTunes App Store. These are incredibly ranged. In addition to symptom checkers you can find eye tests, pregnancy helpers and stress checks for your phone. Diet and exercise apps are also hugely popular, helping you lead a healthy lifestyle.

Helplines

Helplines are telephone services which can provide help and advice with medical issues. Hotlines are available for health problems such as Parkinson's, MS, and Alzheimer's. They are also commonly used for mental health issues, such as eating disorders, depression or anxiety issues.

An experienced operator can help with advice and point you to the medical help you need. Many mental health helplines are also there simply if someone is feeling depressed and needs someone to talk to.

There are helplines all over the world. Even if you can’t find one in your country, many are available to call from anywhere in the world. You can use VoIP services such as Skype to call them from your computer or smartphone for free.

Health Check-ups

There are various medical checks available to ensure your whole body is fit and healthy. One of the most common is a general medical check-up, also known as a physical exam. These are usually taken annually. Doctors will carry out a range of tests on your body to ensure you’re not at risk of things like diabetes, high cholesterol or obesity. They also check for any issues with the heart and lungs.

A physical exam is a good way to make sure your whole body is in good shape. Any health problems, either small or severe, can be identified and henceforth treated. There are also a range of more specific health check-ups you can take.

You should have regular check-ups with your dentist. Dentists can identify any problems with your teeth, gums and general mouth area. Problems with the teeth can become serious over time, so you should make a dentist appointment at least once a year.

An eye examination is also helpful. An eye exam can be taken by an optometrist to ensure there are no problems with your vision. Some people don’t realise how bad their eyesight is, and how much glasses or contact lenses could assist them. It is recommended to get an eye exam once every couple of years.